Study of the multicontamination of field crops under open field conditions

In light of stricter European regulations on mycotoxin and trace element levels in food and feed, this work implements a multicontaminant field‐based approach to describe and explain contamination patterns in wheat and sunflower. A permanent national network of experimental plots spanning varied pedo‐climatic zones was established to generate descriptive and explanatory data, including potential cross‐effects between contaminants. Initial hypotheses linking soil properties, climate variables and farming practices to contamination events were formulated. To ensure reproducibility and traceability, a validated sampling guide for wheat and sunflower grains was developed for accurate determination of trace element concentrations. These findings support the development of predictive models, prevention tools and management recommendations to help farmers limit contamination risks.